Saying NO...To yourself

24 Don’t you know that all the runners in the stadium run, but only one gets the prize? So run to win. 25 Everyone who competes practices self-discipline in everything. The runners do this to get a crown of leaves that shrivel up and die, but we do it to receive a crown that never dies. 26 So now this is how I run—not without a clear goal in sight. I fight like a boxer in the ring, not like someone who is shadowboxing. 27 Rather, I’m landing punches on my own body and subduing it like a slave. I do this to be sure that I myself won’t be disqualified after preaching to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (CEB)

All pictures are taken, belong to and are edited by Lesli Allyn Blogs

It  can be  pretty difficult to say  no to yourself at times.   I know personally  one of  my vices is  food and  boy oh boy when  a  craving hits all I can think about is the food that I'm craving .  I  rationalize and  weight out  all my options.  I  have this eternal  tug of war  and sometimes I win and   sometimes I lose. 

When I abstain from my   caving   I have to be honest initially  I am  unhappy because  discipline is  uncomfortable.  But in the long run I am  happier knowing that I didn't allow my  body to  dictate  my  actions .  When I give into my   cravings there is  a  immediate  although temporary moment  of satisfaction  but that is quickly  followed by regret and disappointment.

"When you have  a goal in mind  discipline   is key,  indulging in  every  whim  will never  be  as satisfying  as   reaching the finish  line of   a  goal ."

To begin  developing  discipline   begin by seeking   God in the area that you're struggling in,  ask Him  to  help you to reach  your  goal and  to remain  focused.   Next write out the things you want to  accomplish often times  a  visual  reminder   is  effective in keeping your goal to the forefront of your thoughts and seeing them through.  Lastly  don't beat yourself up when you fall short  don't  let  your mistake give you  license to give up;  Take time to  readjust your  approach and  pick yourself back up and   move  forward.

Think about   the long term  effects  being a  better  manger  of   what  God  has entrusted you with.  If  you are a better  steward over   your health, finances and  resources  it shows  God that  you can be  trusted with  more .  So hang in there,  keep pressing  forward  to the  completion of your goal then set another one you can  do  it!  

Love ,